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Residents like to complain that there isn't a lot of great shopping on the Big Island, but unless you're searching for winter coats, you can find plenty to deplete your pocketbook.
Dozens of shops in Kailua-Kona offer a range of souvenirs from far-flung corners of the globe and plenty of local coffee and foodstuffs to take home to everyone you left behind. Housewares and artworks made from local materials (lauhala, coconut, koa, and milo wood) fill the shelves of small boutiques and galleries throughout the island. Upscale shops in the resorts along the Kohala Coast carry high-end clothing and accessories, as do a few boutiques scattered around the island. Galleries and gift shops, many showcasing the work of local artists, fill historical buildings in Waimea, Kainaliu, Holualoa, and Hawi. Hotel shops generally offer the most attractive and original resort wear, but, as with everything else at resorts, the prices run higher than elsewhere on the island.
High prices are entirely too common at the island's resort spas, but a handful of unique experiences are worth every penny. Beyond the resorts, the Big Island is also home to independent massage therapists and day spas that offer similar treatments for lower prices, albeit usually in a slightly less luxurious atmosphere. In addition to the obvious relaxation benefits of any spa trip, the Big Island's spas have done a fantastic job incorporating local traditions and ingredients into their menus. Massage artists work with coconut or kukui (candlenut) oil, hot-stone massages are conducted with volcanic stones, and ancient healing techniques such as lomilomi—a massage technique with firm, constant movement—are staples at every island spa.
You might lose yourself exploring the trove of fine art and collectibles in every price range at this gallery, which represents hundreds of local artists and has a low-key, unhurried atmosphere. The "things" include hand-stitched quilts, ceramic sculptures, vintage kimonos, original paintings, koa-wood bowls and furniture, etched glassware, Niihau shell lei, and feather art by local artist Beth McCormick.
Since 1970, this Waimea landmark at Parker Square has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Although specialty kitchenware takes center stage, the shop brims with local gourmet items, books, kimonos, and Hawaiian gifts and souvenirs.
As local as it gets, this little shop is a classic Big Island tradition, selling preserved Hawaiian-style seeds, li hing mui (sweet and sour plums), Japanese snacks such as arare (small crackers), and handmade candies, in addition to authentic Hawaiian souvenirs.
Supporting the Waimea Arts Council, the gallery presents annual juried shows of local art as well as solo and group exhibitions by its many award-winning multimedia artists and artisans. It's in Waimea's original firehouse building at the intersection of Lindsey Road and Mamalahoa Highway. Always call to check before visiting, as the gallery is staffed by volunteers and hours aren't always regular.
From its plain name and exterior, this store doesn't look like much, but it sells the best selection of premium spirits, wines, and gourmet items on the island. Alvin, the owner, is a collector of fine wines, as evidenced by his multiple cellars. Wine tastings take place Friday afternoon from 3 to 6 and Saturday at noon.
With a welcoming, ranch-style motif, this shopping hub includes a supermarket, some great local eateries (Village Burger, Noodle Club, and Lilikoi Café), a coffee shop, a natural foods store, galleries, and clothing boutiques. The Parker Ranch Store and Parker Ranch Visitors Center and Museum are also here, but at this writing, they are under renovation.
Although the Gallery of Great Things, known for art and collectibles, is this shopping center's star attraction, it's also worth looking into the Waimea General Store; Sweet Wind, for books, chimes, and beads; Bentley's, which sells locally crafted and imported home decor and gifts; and Hula Moon, for upscale women's fashions. Waimea Coffee Company satisfies with salads, sandwiches, and Kona coffee.
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